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Music Lesson Reviews from Students

Students are raving about their Music instructors on TakeLessons.
Check out some of these recent reviews.

Review by Corinna

"I'm having a great time taking beginning piano with Erica. I didn't know anything about piano before signing up for lessons, but I definitely think I'll s

tick with it. Also, I live in Bushwick, so her location is really convenient."

...

New York, NY teacher:
Erica Q.

Review by Lanna

"Jean is a wonderful teacher. She's dedicated and patient with her students. With a great music background, Jean has given our kids (two of her students)

great music & piano techniques/methodology and a way to approach music that is by far superior to that of any of the previous piano teachers. She is agile in her approach to teaching piano with the belief that not one teaching method is applicable to all kids.

- Parent of Lanna & MaiLina"

...

Baltimore, MD teacher:
Jean T.

Review by Diane

"My daughter Caroline has been taking voice lessons with Stacey since March, 2014, and right away she developed a strong rapport with her. Stacey is a wond

erful teacher. Not only is she a very talented singer herself, she also has a very outgoing personality and truly cares about helping her students achieve their dreams. Just a few months after she started lessons, my daughter achieved her goal of being accepted into her high school's vocal ensemble. Since then Stacey has encouraged her to participate in other competitions and recitals. Stacey has not only developed Caroline's talent, she has helped develop her confidence."

...

Cincinnati, OH teacher:
Stacey S.

Review by Hilal

"The Best

When I signed up for lessons, I honestly did not know the fundamentals of playing the piano. Corby carefully helped me learn from the ground up.

Her kind compliance helped me ignite more and more ambition each week, and now I am understanding and playing with much more confidence. Not only does she teach you how to play the piano, but she teaches you the theory behind the music as well, so that you're a STUDENT of the instrument, rather than just a musician that plays the notes. She's articulate and remarkably organized. If you're interested in the piano, I would be baffled if you didn't sign up with Corby."

...

San Diego, CA teacher:
Corby S.

Review by Samantha

"Josh was great! He was knowledgeable and very easy to get along with."

Boston, MA teacher:
Joshua F.

Review by Ben

"Finally a teacher I can learn from!

Dan came over to my apt and was very polite and a good listener. I told him what I wanted to learn and the types of m

usic I liked. We talked for a bit and I instantly felt comfortable. After a good laugh we launched right in! I found his teaching style to be invigorating! We "jammed" on the first chord pattern he showed me and it actually sounded good. After a few more tricks I was hooked. I left my first session with Dan feeling not only inspired, but also informed. I had material to practice. Dan is a very fun, smart, broadly trained talent to learn from. I highly recommend him. A true musician!"

...

San Francisco, CA teacher:
Dan G.

Review by James

"I have had several other trumpet teachers before, but Gary is the best! He has shared with me processes to improve my playing that are literally "trade s

ecrets" from top level trumpeters that are helping me to take my trumpet playing to a whole new level. My wife is ecstatic at how good I sound! She even enjoys listening to my warm up exercises! I find Gary to be very responsive to my needs and adept at spotting where I need to improve. I could not recommend him more highly!"

...

San Diego, CA teacher:
Gary R.

Review by christian

"We love working with Salwa. Her attention to detail is amazing and she has been able to change habits in one session. She has a beautiful way of seeing th

e world and infuses that kindness in everything she does. She is an asset to our lives and we are grateful to have met her."

...

Los Angeles, CA teacher:
Salwa B.

Review by Brandon

"I have known Vinnie for quite a few years now and have gotten to jam with him a couple times at the music shop he used to work at. Not only is he an incre

dible player, but an amazing teacher as well. If you are looking to learn theory, phrasing, or just fun riffs to jam to, this is the only teacher you will need."

Diego M.

About Diego

Diego was born in August 24, 1979 in Bogotá (capital of Colombia). He grew up into a musical family where his father played guitar and singed opera with his mother. He discovered at an early age (5) that he had a natural talent for playing the guitar, and his passion was fueled by the music that he listened to at home as a child. At age 13, with a guitar that his father gave him, he initiated his musical studies, eventually led to formal studies at the school of arts Jovenes Tejedores (1999), under the instruction of the professor Omar Beltran, focusing on traditional Colombian music Later

, entered to be part of the school of rock with the instruction of professor Teto Ocampo (ex guitarist of Carlos Vives). In addition, he studied in the academy Luis A Calvo, a prestigious music school in Bogotá (Colombia), where he studied classical guitar, tiple, bandola, Colombian pacific music and Colombian Atlantic music. He studied classical guitar with maestro Mario Riveros, flamenco guitar with professor Roberto Martinez, electric guitar with professor Amir Calzadilla. Upon graduating as a music instructor, Diego began teaching the skills he had acquired throughout the years. Diego left Colombia and came to the United States in 2006 to continue with his musical studies. Entered to be part of the project “factor Guitar” with the flamenco guitars Alejandro de la Fuente and Miguel Grieco; They perform at many prestigious places like Ritz Carlton Hotel , portofino hotel gaylord palms hotel and others widely throughout Orlando and Miami areas. Having fallen in love with flamenco music, Diego began to perform and record solo. In 2008 he released his first CD “Cantos De Mi Guitarra” with all original compositions with melodic, classical guitar and mellow Latin jazz, with a Spanish and Latin American influence. Diego de Caceres studied jazz guitar at Berklee College of music with the more famous teachers of Berklee, Tim miller, Bruce Saunders, Larry Baione, Rick Peckham, Robin Stone and now he is a Certified teacher From Berklee college.Currently, Diego is working on his new album Rumba catalana with a very strong catalan Flamenco infuence.

*** Lesson Details ***I am a very patient teacher, I love when my students say, "I'm understanding everything", I repeat 100 times until my students learn clear ideas and concepts. It's very important enjoy the class and have fun.

Many beginning guitarists have learned the basics of open and moveable chord shapes, but aren't sure how or why the individual notes within the chord work so well together, or the ways by which they can expand this chord knowledge to unlock the fret board of the guitar.

Scale study is a fundamental building block to guitar mastery. Accomplished guitarists use scales to add color, mood, depth and feeling to their playing.

Reviews

Paul W. November 7, 2014
Flamenco Guitar ·
In studio Verified Student

I have just completed my third lesson with Diego and I am more than pleased. He is a phenomenal guitarist and an excellent teacher. He is motivated and truly loves doing what he does. He covers everything from techniques, body mechanics and music theory. I highly recommend him for anyone wanting to learn the wonderful art of Flamenco Guitar.

Maria A. September 24, 2014
Guitar ·
In studio Verified Student

My child had an excellent experience with Diego as he was always very courteous, professional and well prepared for us. I would recommend Diego as an instructor to surely help you achieve your learning goals.

Juan L. December 30, 2013
Guitar Verified Student

Excellent customer services

Diego M. has a great teaching skills, he acts very professional, excellent communicator, very patient and flexible. I can recomend him to anybody, that is really interested in learning how to play guitar.

Thank you!

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Diego M.

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Diego M.

Kissimmee, FL 34743

(3)

starting at

$25
/ 30-min

Andre L.

About Andre

Was born in Brazil in 1974. At age of 8, he began guitar studies at the Villa Lobos Conservatory where he completed the 7 years course. During the period from 1994 to 1996 he studied with Luiz Claudio Ferreira at School of Music and Fine Arts of Paraná – Brazil where he earned the Bachelors degree in performance.Mr. L has been in the most important guitar events in the states such Guitar Foundation of America (CA), Stetson International Guitar Workshop (FL) and Guitar Symposium (GA). His activities as an instructor, clinician and performer have been intense and he has received great recogni

tion.

*** Lesson Details ***The ultimate goal is to mix Technic/Professional oriented instruction with a expectation of each student , depending on age, level and personal goal.

*** Studio Equipment ***Lessons are taught in my Home Studio Room.A quiet and exclusive place for the lessons.Music stand and foot stool are provided. Each student must bring their own instrument.

*** Specialties ***Usually I use any easy method for kids to initiation as a base material.

...

Reviews

Yoimer A. December 15, 2012
Classical Guitar Verified Student

Excellent Teacher.

I'm an experienced player, so I can't exactly say that he'd be good for someone who's just picking up a guitar. But he does an excellent job teaching technicality and musicality, which is something that many teachers lack these days. When I looked for a teacher I wanted someone who would help me better myself as a musician in a style I wasn't very familiar with. By musician, I mean someone who is not only technically proficient, but also very musical and a very good interpreter of music. So far he's helped me a lot in all of those aspects, while managing to keep a comfortable learning pace. I'd recommend him to anyone who really wants to push themselves musically.

Hilary H. December 10, 2012
Guitar Verified Student

Wonderful Teacher

Best instructor ever! Very patient, and has an instinctive ability to understand how a student best learns, and focuses on that style, thus producing results I never dreamed I could accomplish. It is a joy to work with Andre.

sajimon G. November 4, 2012 Verified Student

This teacher is wonderful

Andre is an excellent guitar teacher. Very encouraging and helpful. Understands my ability and interest.

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Andre L.

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Andre L.

Kissimmee, FL 34746

(6)

starting at

$25
/ 30-min

Paul M.

About Paul

I began taking drum lessons at a very early age and continued on and off with various teachers for the better part of twenty years. I will always be grateful to them for the knowledge and wisdom they imparted on me and for the positive influence they have had on my life, especially the ones with whom I really bonded and who were essentially mentors to me while I studied with them.

As a teacher, there is no better feeling than seeing a student make progress and knowing that you helped him or her along the way, while at the same time not taking the credit, as it is always the student who has

the harder job, who must do the real work. I always feel tremendous satisfaction when a student masters a difficult rudimentary exercise for the first time, or is able to execute a challenging rhythm pattern on the drum set. The expression on their faces often conveys pride over their achievement, and I can often sense a boost in their self-esteem. This is why I teach.

I began playing drums when I was around twelve years old, and played throughout grade school, high school and college, in school jazz bands and musical pit bands, as well as playing in many rock bands over the years. I began teaching drums shortly after graduating from college, eventually relocating to New York City, where I lived for 12 years and where I continued playing and teaching, as well as taking lessons on and off. I was very fortunate to study with Joe Morello - famous for his tenure with Dave Brubeck and especially on the classic recording "Take Five." I have also played on several recordings, toured throughout the Northeast and Midwest, and have performed at the South By Southwest music festival in Austin, Texas, the Sundance Film Festival in Utah, the Miami Music Festival, and have been overseas a few times for some European dates. Since moving to Orlando in late 2009, I have joined a cover band and played in the orchestras for musical productions at community theaters.

To me, teaching drums is more than simply writing notes on a page of manuscript paper and having students practice and perform exercises. It is about connecting and showing them how expressing themselves musically can be one of the most fulfilling activities one can pursue. It is also about helping them really get in touch with their own sense of rhythm, the foundation of all music. When I take on new students, it is always my goal that I can help foster in them the same passion for and love of learning to play drums as the great teachers who taught me.

*** Lesson Details ***My lesson plan will be based on the student's level and goals. If the student is a beginner, we will start off with basic hand technique, rudiments, reading, etc., before moving on to the drum set. Playing along with a metronome will also be a regular part of lessons and should be with practice as well.

At the drum set, I will give students exercises for developing coordination and independence. They will also learn to play basic beats for different music styles, e.g. rock, jazz, funk, latin, with a focus on execution, time and feel. I have a wide assortment of drum books spanning all levels from which we can work out of or use examples. I also ask my students what songs they want to learn to play on the drums so that together we can figure out the beats to them. I ultimately want them to be able to transcribe the beats to these songs themselves, as well as create their own beats.

I may also talk a little about the history of drumming and the pioneers of the instrument, and we may also listen to records and watch videos of some of the masters in action.

I also occasionally like to "jam" with my students. as I have a piano and a few guitars in my practice room and a modicum of ability on both instruments.

As far as expectations, I assume my students are taking lessons because they want to learn to play the drums. And, as with any learning endeavor, practicing is very important. That said, I won't demand they practice a certain number of hours per week, as they need to decide how much time they have or are willing to put into it, and I expect this will vary from student to student. I realize that everyone has his or her own aptitudes and situations, so we can work together to determine the appropriate pace and amount of material to cover per week. However, if it appears to me that the student has not practiced the lesson, or is not putting in the time necessary to make progress, I will politely point it out and ask how I can help.

I am laid back and very patient. I never want my students to feel pressured or anxious about coming to lessons; I always strive to create a comfortable and relaxed environment in which they can learn and have fun at the same time.

*** Studio Equipment ***A designated music room with an electronic drum set (Roland V Drums), digital piano, and a couple of guitars and amplifiers

*** Travel Equipment ***I can bring a practice pad or snare drum and sticks to the first lesson, if he or she is a beginner, although I prefer them to have these already if possible. After that, I expect the student to buy sticks, a pad and if necessary a stand to mount it, a metronome, music manuscript paper, and have a comfortable seat to sit on, if not a drum stool. If they are at the intermediate level and/or have already started on the drum set, then they need to have their own set in their home.

Rock and basic funk, jazz, and latin. Also basic musical notation. Ultimately, I would like the student to be able to transcribe the beats from some of their favorite songs, as well as write their own!

...

Reviews

LorelleA January 21, 2012

I love working with Paul

Paul isn't just a teacher, he's a collaborator. He allows me to direct where I want to go, but he points me in that direction and works with me to figure out the best way to get there. When I played other instruments, lessons were nerve-wracking and I was always relieved when they were over. Now I look forward to my lessons every week, and I don't want to leave when we're done! Working with Paul is a very positive experience, and I'd recommend him to anyone interested in learning to drum.

Paul M.

Paul M.

Fernando Barros

About Fernando

I have been studying Film and Photography for the past 10years, and I have been a musician since 7years old,now I'm finally able to teach my students the Arts I once also fell in love with.

I'm a pretty much a very mobile shooter, I can adapt to all scenarios and situations very quickly based on restrictions,locations,lighting.You will experience something very professional and academical and your Work / Art will turn into something spectacular for yourself and all those around you. I plan to follow your ideas and projects for shoots,being sharp and ready to teach when scheduled.My Photogr

aphy and Film shooting style are modern plus contemporary and uses at all times elements and composition rules.Being a Musician for so long helped me to become more sensitive with my other Arts.

I will focus my time towards the projects that you have,will provide exciting new ways to learn with a very active style, I'm sure I can help and be ready for your needs based on my Experiences and education.

As a very active Artist I always worked a lot in different positions inside the media Arts: Productions, Short Films, lessons, classes, workshops, web commercial, Tv Commercial, Youtube Vlogs, Bloggers, Corporation Seminars, Institutional videos and photoshoots, Interviews, Fashion, Wedding industry Film and Photo, Artistic Photography, fine Art, Theme photography, portraits, advanced editing, free lancer photographer for the city of Malden MA, Studio, Out doors, being them my own and contracted ones as well. My specialties, and diversities on this field are vast and my studies and equipments are sharp on, i like to say that I evolve with the market and industry always.

My vast experience on Film, Photography, Music and Directing, leaded me into important jobs along the industry.

Photographer with a passion for the studies for the past 10 years and now I'm finally able to teach my students the Art once I also fell in love with.

ON DRUMS: Teaching the drums for over 15 years,

I'm a Professional Musician with over 20 years of experience. Can't wait to see you soon!

''All the subjects are based on Students' needs and Level of knowledge, these are just an order example of a lesson's plan. ''

I'm a Drum player and a teacher with many qualities. I have been playing Drums since 7 years old and teaching for over 15 years. You will learn from a experienced professional all there is to get you playing your favorite songs, applying cool technics, reading the music sheet, understand the styles, rhythms, different music volumes and approaches, play popular songs and as well as classic ones, use the youtube to help you and learn about great drummers, get your speed, your foot work, tuning the drums, recording with the drums, performing for your loved ones, playing with other musicians, rudiments, chops, gospel chops, Pop, rock, jazz, indie, Samba, Ballad, Electronic, progressive, fusion, afro, and so many others. Can't wait to get you started :)

...

Reviews

r A. January 31, 2015
Drum ·
In studio Verified Student

Fernando is a highly recommended teacher for drums. Beyond his kindness and his supportiveness, both of which are very genuine and aid in increasing the rate at which you grow (no anxiety from lessons, much confidence), his care pushes you to set goals and to keep setting goals to succeed. Underlying the foundation he sets for drums is a foundation for music -- he prepares you for all styles, so that you can be an adaptive player, but not only a mechanically skilled one; one with feeling and purpose. He is a great drums player, musician, teacher, person: take lessons with him; he will be infectious!

Daniely P. January 17, 2015
Photography ·
In studio

It has been a Great teacher, has a way of explaining awesome, he not only teaches you how to be a good photographer, it incorporates one, I have it as an example, as inspiration, being a good professional. A good teacher and a great person, understands and supports its students, had not day nor schedule to answer my questions, helped me to have the thought that I have today about photography, I am eternally grateful for the photography teacher I have!

Brenda D. January 16, 2015
Photography ·
In studio

These are my true thoughts...
Im here to say that he is an awesome teacher, not only because he is nice, or because he is friendly. But because he really helped me to learn a lot of things in Photography. He helped and still helps me understand what photography really means, and he taught me a lot of new things. He is also really patient and has a WONDERFUL personality. He became a friend, not only a teacher. And that is awesome because it shows that he really cares. I love how his classes are one on one, and I feel that I've learned so much because of this. I thank you so much Fernando! YOU ARE AWESOME!

I really recommend.

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Fernando Barros

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Fernando Barros

Windermere, FL 34786

(3)

starting at

$25
/ 30-min

Kevin M.

About Kevin

Hello! My name is Kevin, and I am looking forward to teaching you everything I know about music! I've been singing at Walt Disney World for over 22 years (and I still am currently) with the Voices of Liberty, the Dapper Dans of Main Street, and Four For A Dollar. I have a Bachelor of Science in Music Education from Penn State University. Even more than singing, playing the guitar, arranging for a cappella, and playing piano, I love to teach! Ever since I was a sophomore in high school, I've wanted to be a teacher of music in various capacities. My favorite aspect of teaching several private st

udents each week is that every individual student has a different story: What is it that you want to accomplish? Would you like to sing, play piano, or play guitar? Would you like training in music theory? Do you want to eventually have a career in music? Will this be a hobby for you? Whatever your goals are, I am excited to know your story.

...

Reviews

Stephen July 28, 2015
Singing ·
In studio

Kevin has been a great teacher for our 11 year old daughter, Sophia. He has inspired her to learn and improve her vocal skills and she is now starting to learn some piano as well. He offers not just singing to her but a rounded understanding of her musical skills. After two months of weekly sessions, she is always excited to go to the class and to continue to practice at home, vocally and on the piano. Thanks Kevin!

Pam C. July 21, 2015
Singing ·
In studio Verified Student

Very profesional

Dana July 8, 2015
Piano ·
In studio

My daughter loves taking piano lessons with Mr. Kevin. He is extremely talented and knowledgeable and teaches in a way that is effective and fun. His excitement for music, use of technology, and ability to assess my daughter’s needs from lesson to lesson keeps her practicing and I appreciate his excellent communication about what and how she is doing. I would definitely recommend Mr. Kevin!

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